Malkin to center Alex Ovechkin and Alex Semin on the first line for tomorrows tilt against the Czech Republic.

Earlier today, RussianHockeyFans.com broke the news that Team Russia’s First Line was getting an upgrade for tomorrow’s game against the Czech Republic. Alex Ovechkin & Alex Semin will now be centered by Evgeni Malkin. Talk about instant offense…

V. Slavin – Why are you playing with Malkin instead Datsyuk?AO – I think, with Malkin our line will get more force and speed.

VS – When was the last time you played on the same line as Malkin?AO – In Torino Olympics – against Canada and in the World Championship in Riga.

VS – How do you interact with Evgeni?AO – All right. The main thing is not to be obsessed with finding each other on ice. Play like you can. Play your game. If you’re trying to play for someone else, and try something special, you’ll get nothing in return.

VS – Earlier in the Olympics, you played on the point for the Powerplay. Today in practice you were in the paint. What do you think about your new role?AO – How’s it new? Every time I play for Russia I play in the paint. That’s why it’s no problem.